eVotion

Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for a peace at this time.

Read

John 16:25-33 (NRSV)

“I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but will tell you plainly of the Father. On that day you will ask in my name. I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father.”

His disciples said, “Yes, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure of speech! Now we know that you know all things, and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!”

Reflect

How many times have you yearned to be able to understand what God was telling you? Well, count yourself in good company! The disciples had spent three years with Jesus, but they were only beginning to understand the meaning behind his words.

Just like the disciples, we often don’t comprehend God’s messages to us. They learned by listening to Jesus. God opens our minds and hearts to new and different understandings as we read and study the scriptures. Yet we must be careful not to impose our own understandings on scripture. It is imperative that we compare scripture with scripture, keeping in mind the context in which the words were spoken or written.

The writers of the Bible wrote to specific groups of people and addressed the issues of their times, yet their messages continue to be pertinent to people centuries later. May we earnestly seek these truths for our life and times.

Pray

Lord, give us open minds and understanding hearts as we read and hear your words. Amen.

Go with God!

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About Cindy Martin

Cindy Martin is the Manager of Cumberland Presbyterian Resources. She and her husband, Barry, are life-long Cumberland Presbyterians. They have one adult daughter and have recently welcomed their first grandchild--Jesse. They are members of Faith Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Bartlett, Tennessee. In her spare time, Cindy enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with family and friends.